Computer impression of the tunnel to be built at Hindhead

The �320m scheme has been given the full backing of the South East England Regional Transport Board (SEERTB).

Campaigners against the development say it will have a detrimental effect on the environment, but SEERTB said it would deliver major improvements.

South West Surrey MP Jeremy Hunt said a tunnel was "really the only option".

'Full commitment'

"This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and in the South East of England we have got huge problems with overdevelopment," he said.

SEERTB's recommendations for the A3 are to be submitted to the government at the end of January.

Chairman Nick Skellett said: "Improving the A3 at Hindhead has our full commitment and our advice to the government is that the scheme needs to be delivered as soon as possible."

Dick Smith, chairman of the Save the Old A3 campaign, said he wants to see the tunnel built, but not at the expense of the existing road.

"If the tunnel should be closed for any reason we are going to have massive congestion around small villages," he said.

"On the grounds of safety and convenience for the local people, our local roads should remain open."